Role of Vasopressin in Central Cardiovascular Regulation

Abstract

Neuropeptides constitute a highly varied group of proteins consisting of as few as 3 and up to 300 amino acids. They also display a great diversity of function, being involved in such varied processes as reproduction, growth and development, learning and behavior, and regulation of autonomic function (Richter, 1988). In recent years, the role of neuropeptides in the central regulation of arterial pressure and in the pathogenesis of hypertension has been the subject of considerable attention (Reid and Rubin, 1987). Neuropeptides mediate a variety of activities either by an endocrine hormonal route or by acting as local regulatory peptides modulating communication between cells. In many instances, the same peptide may display both paracrine and endocrine activities (Morris et al., 1987). Of all the neuropeptides, arginine vasopressin (AVP) has been one of the most widely studied. The availability of sophisticated immunocytochemical and biochemical methods has permitted localization of AVP in areas of the brain known to be involved in cardiovascular regulation. In addition, specific AVP receptors with high affinity have been found in these same brain areas.

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